What’s inside How to contact
Community news
Pages 4–6
Bee-hind the scenes with PPP
Pages 26–17
Q&A with BBC’s James Dundon
Pages 18–19
Wasson Probus?
Page 43
Emily’s wildlife
Pages 22–23
Local sport
Page 45
Plus: ‘The Spirit of Truro’ aeroplane, pencil sketches by Tom Hickman and more ideas for pasty fillings than you can shake a stick at!
Front cover: Sunset at Ruan Lanihorne by Jon Hibberd.
Submission deadlines for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month.
Publication dates
March Friday 27th February
April Friday 27th March
May Friday 1st May
June Friday 29th May
July Friday 26th June
August Friday 31st August
Available online:
www.issuu.com/ probusnews/
Probus News is a non-profit making, independent voluntary organisation. Your donations are always welcome.
Public
notice
The inclusion of any article or advertisement in this magazine does not constitute any form of accreditation by the Editor or management committee. They are unable to vouch for the professional qualifications, etc, of any advertiser. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Descriptions Act 1975, Business Advertisements Disclosure Order 1977 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Readers must satisfy themselves that an advertiser meets all their necessary requirements. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of their authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or management committee. Our privacy and safeguarding policies are available on request to the Secretary.
By email:
editorprobusnews@gmail.com
By hand: Articles for Probus News can be left at Trudgian Farm Shop in Probus Square. Management Team
EDITOR: John Denyer 07824 555519
editorprobusnews@gmail.com
CHAIRMAN: Sheila Bing 01726 883400
sheila.bing@outlook.com
SECRETARY: David Meggs 07850 945626
minesaredwine@hotmail.com
TREASURER: Eddie Bokas 07758 246673 ecbokas13@gmail.com
ASSISTANT TREASURER: Val Forster threeforsters@yahoo.com
ADVERTISING: Kaye Ludlow 07968 722430 advertisingprobusnews@gmail.com
DELIVERY MANAGER: Tim Joyce 01726 884574 timstravels01@hotmail.com
EDITORIAL:
Sarah Hoggett 07931 502 939 sarahprobusnews@gmail.com
Emily Forster wildforsterphoto@ outlook.com
Clare McNeilly Datson clareprobusnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jon Hibberd 07931 502921 jonyhibs58@gmail.com
Daisy Bassett
SOCIAL MEDIA: Vanessa McGill
PROOFREADERS: Marilyn Joyce, Tania Williams and Teresa Hayhoe.
Printed by: Control Print Ltd, 01209 214200 www.controlprint.co.uk
Community news
PROBUS & THE SURROUNDING AREA
Our local community larder is held four times a week in Probus Church; it’s FREE and open to EVERYBODY in Probus and the surrounding area.
Help us, help yourself and reduce food waste!
We open for tea and coffee half an hour before each session. Why not join us?
Monday 4–4:30 pm
Wednesday 2:30–3:30 pm
TR2 Community Hub
COMMUNITY
hubs offer safe, supportive environments where people can access help, advice and activities. They rely on collaboration between organisations to provide the best local resources and support.
At this time, TR2 Community Hub activities are currently only in Probus Church.
In Probus Church
Refreshments available:
Monday 10 am–noon
Tuesday 10:30 am–noon
Wednesday 10 am–noon
Friday 8:45 am–noon
Pain Café: 1st Monday of each month 10 am–noon.
Carers Corner: Support and advice for all carers. 2nd Monday of each month, 10 am–noon.
Digital Support Hub: Drop in for advice or assistance with using computers or completing online tasks. 3rd Monday of each month, 10 am–noon.
Move More: Falls prevention course for the over 65s. Wednesday mornings, 10:30–11:30 am.
Community Support and Information Hub: Drop-in support sessions with a range of professionals – adult social care, housing, DWP, Job Centre, Community Energy Plus, social prescribers and vicar. 3rd Wednesday of each month, 2–4 pm.
Jon Hibberd
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor,
Thanks to everyone who supported my appeal for a bus shelter to be erected at the stop between Probus School Filling Station and College Close.
Special thanks go out to the owners of the filling station, who put copies of the appeal on their counter. The petition was signed by 86 people.
The shelter has now been erected, so no more waiting in the rain!
Many thanks for your support.
Bob Bailey, Corner Cottage, Probus
Do you have a problem?
Why not contact one of your local parish councillors for advice?
Bus timetable changes
FOLLOWING
First Bus’s withdrawal from the county, Go Cornwall will be taking over their routes from 15th February. As far as Probus is concerned, this change appears to affect only the number 27 bus between Truro and St Austell.
From Monday to Saturday, the first number 27 from Probus to Truro will be at 06:25, with buses then running hourly at 3 minutes past the hour from 07:03 until 19:03, and the last buses departing at 20:19 and 22:19.
From Truro to Probus, buses will run hourly at 35 minutes past the hour from 07:35 until 19:35, with the last buses departing at 20:40 and 22:40.
However, do check departure times online at www.transportforcornwall.org before travelling! At the time of going to print, Go Cornwall had issued the caveat that revised timetables are ‘still subject to minor changes as we continue to support local communities and demonstrate our commitment to reliable, accessible bus services across Cornwall’.
Jack Burr Treviglas Lane jackburr@probusparishcouncil.co.uk
Alison Cook Nankilly 07516 794883 alisoncook@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Chris Dutton Carne View Road 07969 451207 chrisdutton@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
James Faull Tresowgar Cottage 07494 756249 jamesfaull@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Nick Gillard (chair) Fore Street 01726 883926 nicholasgillard@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Ivan Myles Kew Wav 07815 944752 ivanmyles@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Wendy O’Callaghan wendyocallaghan@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Ian Peters Carne View Road 07825 889067 ianpeters@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Jo Vincent joannavincent@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk wwwprobusparishcouncil.gov.uk
If you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then contact the Parish Council Clerk Adrian Webster (locum clerk) clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk - Cornwall Councillor Karen Glasson can also be contacted on 07980 975527 or cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk.
of Probus clubs, societies, organisations and
Acoustics Night (Comrades Club)
Badminton Club
Bees (swarms/issues/questions)
Bookworms Book Club
Bowling Club
Breakfast Club
Church Bell Ringers
Churchwarden
Tim Joyce 07412 126774 timstravels01@hotmail.com
Harry Pritchard 07434 582238
Tony Paddock 07486 295414
Gaynor O’Kane okanegaynor@gmail.com
David Meggs 07850 945626
Roger Fortescue 07703 690739
Liza Deards 07888 684425
Andy McCartney/Matthew Hodge churchwarden@probus.church Comrades Club
Cornwall Councillor
Cycling – Probus Pedallers
Football - Saturday Club
Probus Youth FC - Juniors
Probus FC - Seniors
Friends of Probus Church
Bryan Trebilcock 01726 882747
Karen Glasson 07980 975527 cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk
Dave Light 07966 683852 or Colin Brown 07484 740249
Steve Flack 07956 049727
Eric Bendelow 07917 008491
Graham Smith 07968 478970
Richard Heath 07849 315432 geotechrich@gmail.com
Grampound Road Cricket Club The Club House 07800 915578 grampoundroadcricketclub@gmail. com
Hawkins Arms
Graham and Phil 01726 882208 www.thehawkinsprobus.co.uk
Historic Cornwall Society (PHCS) Joanna Czlonkowska 07399 544014 joannaczlonkowska@gmail.com
Kids Club Breakfast/after-school at Probus Primary School 01726 882647 kidsclub@probusschool.org.uk
Knit & Natter Group
Litter Picking Group
Little Lights and Toddler Group
Mid Cornwall Wood Turners
MHA Over 55s Luncheon Club
MHA Over 55s Friendship Group
Parish Players (Pantomime)
Pickleball Club
Playing Field Mgmt Committee
Parish Council Clerk
Probus Primary School
Probus Primary School PTA
Probus Club of Probus
Eve Richards 01726 882657 or 07767 383982
Nick Lauder 07813 995206 stevedalton166@btinternet.com
Eleanor McCartney 07510 054838 eleanorjmccartney@icloud.com
Baz Bazeley secretary@midcornwallturners.com
Tracy Beavill 07720 680989 tracy.beavill@mha.org.uk.
Tracy Beavill 07720 680989 tracy.beavill@mha.org.uk.
Shareen Partridge 07919 313643 info@probusparishplayers.co.uk
Graham Kemp 07961 716620 drummerboy-13@hotmail.com
Graham Smith 07968 478 970
Adrian Webster (Locum clerk) clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Stephanie Moore 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk
Chris Dutton 07969 451207 probuspta@gmail.com
Nick Hibbett 01726 883093 nick.hibbett@btinternet.com
Probus Church ground maintenance/ PEAT Nick Lauder 07813 995206 n.lauder29@btinternet.com
Probus Nursery
Stephanie Moore 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk
Sticker Memory Cafe 07901 147353 or 07717333713
U3A Roseland & District
Terry Neil 01872 530196 u3aroselandanddistrict.weebly.com
Village Hall Lettings 07749 368162 lettings@probusvillagehall.co.uk
Walking Group - Wednesdays
- Fridays
Young Farmers
Kay Hyatt 07948 993635
Teresa Hayhoe or Kaye Ludlow 07720 393754 or 07968 722430
Tori Dymond - Sec
Lewis Marsh - Chair 07393 984713 07522 874798 toridymond2005@icloud.com
Other village pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Fun Week
Kewsyn Kernewek!
LET’S
speak Cornish! As we’re celebrating Valentine’s Day this month, why not include one or more of these phrases in a card to the special person in your life? (Incidentally, although it seems like an unlikely combination, did you know that St Valentine is also the patron saint of beekeepers and people who suffer from epilepsy?)
ENGLISH
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Want to learn more?
There are free Cornish language sessions at Wheal Martyn (the first Monday of every month at 10:30 am) and Kresen Kernow in Redruth (the first Thursday of every month at 2 pm). There’s no need to book in advance – just turn up on the day. You can also find details of more formal Cornish language classes at www.gocornish.org.
KERNEWEK
Approx. pronunciation
Dydh Valentin Lowen! Dith VAL-en-teen LOW-en.
To my Valentine. Dhe’m Valentin. Thaym VAL-en-teen.
To my sweetheart. Dhe’m keresik. Thaym kair-ESS-eek.
With all my love.
I’m sending you hugs and kisses!
I love you.
I love you with all my heart.
I love you to the moon and back.
Gans oll ow herenza. Gans oll oh hair-ENN-za.
Y tannvonav dhis byrlys hag ammow!
Ih tan-VON-av theece BEER-liss hag AM-oh.
My a’th kar. Mih ath KAR.
My a’th kar gans oll ow holonn.
My a’th kar bys dhe’n loer ha dhe-dre.
Mih ath KAR gans oll oh HOL-onn.
Mih ath KAR biss then LO-er ha the-DRAY.
My heart belongs to you. Yma ow holonn dhis. Im-MA oh HOL-onn theece.
You are my sunshine.
Yth os ta ow howlsplann.
Ith oss ta oh HOLE-splan.
You’re my whole world. Ow bys dien os ta. Oh biss dee-EN oss ta.
You’re my Valentine... Yth os ta ow Valentin...
Ith oss ta oh VAL-en-teen...
... now and for ever. ... lemmyn ha bys vykken. ... LEMM-inn ha biss VICK-en.
NOTE: There are two main spelling systems in use in Cornish – Standard Written Form (SWF) and Kernewek Kemmyn (Common Cornish), although there isn’t a huge difference between them. This text is written in Kemmyn.
In the pronunciation guide, stressed syllables are shown in capital letters (in Cornish the stress usually falls on the penultimate syllable).
A message from Rev Caroline
DEAR
Friends and Neighbours,
It is a peculiarity of the Christian calendar that no sooner have we celebrated Christmas and Christ being born amongst us, than we are racing ahead towards the events that led to his crucifixion, death and resurrection.
However, we do have a few weeks in which to find out, or reaffirm, how Jesus’ ministry began and to recall the excitement we felt when we first started following Jesus. Jesus’ ministry, exercised through love, teaches us that there is another way to live our lives and, ultimately, leads us to God, our Heavenly Father, and to great peace within our souls.
We have no way of knowing what is going to happen next in the world. To some it may seem like ignorance, denial or perhaps even weakness, but it is important that we continue working towards the good of our community, and the greater good of all because of, or despite, the difficulties in the world around us. We need to work to be the ‘Good News’ to one another by sharing a deep sense of our humanity.
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, and so on Wednesday 18th February we will hold a service during which the ‘imposition of ashes’ will take place. The imposition of ashes serves as a powerful, visible reminder of our human condition and God’s redeeming love, encouraging selfreflection and a deeper commitment to faith as Christians prepare for Easter.
Following Ash Wednesday, Probus and St Grace Church will offer a short course on the Be-attitudes (The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:3-12). These are the teachings of Jesus that aim to help us develop a positive mental attitude to life and all
that it holds. You are very welcome to join us, to ask questions, to discover what Christians think about the difficulties in life today and to determine how we can respond to the needs of a world that seems out of kilter compared with the paradise first imagined by God. Jesus gave us practical doctrines to help, so please do come and join in as we seek to unpack his meaning. The course will take place each Wednesday at 7 pm and will run until Easter. There is no need to book; just come along – refreshments will be available.
I have recently learned that some feel they cannot come to the church to benefit from the assets it provides to the village. This saddens me. You do not need to be a church member to take advantage of the wonderful resources. The coffee mornings, community larder, baby and toddler groups are open to all. Indeed, the church is open to all – always. Even if you would just like to come in out of the wind and rain for 5 minutes – you are welcome.
Gras ha Kres (Grace and Peace),
Rev’d Caroline Husband
Church Services February
Sun 2nd, 9:30am Connect
Thu 6th, 12 noon Holy Communion
Sun 9th, 9:30 am Holy Communion
Sun 16th, 9:30 am Connect
Wed 18th, 7 pm Ash Wednesday
Thu 20th, 12 noon Holy Communion
Sun 23th, 9:30 am Holy Communion
Other regular events...
Coffee Mornings
Tuesdays 10:30 am–noon
Fridays 8:45–10:00 am
Little Lights
Thursdays 9:30-11:30 am
Q&A...
With BBC Radio Cornwall’s James Dundon
Probus News was delighted to sit down with familiar voice (and occasional face on Spotlight) James Dundon, to chat about life on and off the airwaves…
Probus News (PN) : James, lovely to see you – thanks for giving us a little of your time today.
James Dundon (JD) : Thanks for having me! I’ve always had family connections to Probus, so it’s a very special place for me.
PN : Let’s start with your on-air life. What does a typical Saturday look like for you?
JD : First job is always the most important – making a round of drinks for the breakfast team, who are right in the thick of their programme when I arrive! After that, I log in and start piecing together the jigsaw of my show. I usually have four to six live guests lined up, although there are often last-minute additions. I like to make sure I’ve got everything I need to bring out the best in them – whether that’s background research, sound effects or music clips to add colour. Then I’ll have a quick catch-up with our newsreader Maddie about what I’ve got coming up, so she can use any lighter items for the weekend bulletins.
The truth is, no presenter ever feels fully prepared – you could spend days and still want more time. And of course, live radio can change in an instant: breaking news, freak weather, traffic chaos – you have to be ready to rip up the script and go with the flow.
PN : And when you’re off air?
JD : I look after BBC Cornwall’s social media. That means producing videos, making graphics and generating posts all week long. It’s fast-paced but I love the variety. I’ve been on local radio here for 20 years now – at Pirate FM, Heart and BBC Cornwall – but this role keeps me learning something new every day, as well as presenting my Saturday show.
PN : How did it all begin?
JD : I’ve loved radio for as long as I can remember. As a kid I had a FisherPrice cassette deck with a plug-in microphone, and I’d sit in my bedroom ‘announcing’ the songs I was playing. Later, while studying Media at Truro College, I threw myself into Truro Hospital Radio. At the same time, I started volunteering on the BBC Radio Cornwall sports show. That was 25 years ago, and I just kept chasing opportunities because I enjoyed it so much. I never imagined I’d still be doing it today – in Cornwall – and I never take that for granted.
PN : What’s been a career highlight so far?
JD : St Piran’s Day last year stands out. We wanted to mark the day in a memorable way, so we came up with the idea of visiting all the locations in Harry Glasson’s song, ‘Cornwall My Home’. I roped in local duo True Foxes with their acoustic guitar, and off we went – Cape Cornwall, Newlyn’s Cywoone Hill, Geevor Tin Mine, and more. We performed at each stop live on the radio and recorded a music video. It was probably the longest day I’ll ever work, but what an unforgettable way to celebrate Cornwall’s patron saint.
PN : You’ve been known to get up to some surreal challenges, too…
JD : Oh yes – Children in Need 2023 springs to mind. We decided to do a walking relay back and forth across the Tamar Bridge for 12 hours. I was paired with BBC Devon’s Angela Kalwaites. To make sure we stood out, I dressed as a giant traffic cone while Angela went as Isambard Kingdom Brunel – beard and all! It poured with rain for the last three hours, and in the final 25 seconds my headphones cut out completely. Somehow, we still managed to hit the 6 pm news bang on the second. I drove home drenched to the skin thinking, ‘Did that really just happen?’
PN : Do nerves ever come into play?
JD : After hundreds of shows, not much fazes me – but covering another presenter’s programme can make me nervous. You’re stepping into their shoes, with a different format and audience expectation. Outside broadcasts are another one. I absolutely love them, but there’s so much that can go wrong – the weather, the tech, the crowd! Still, they bring so much atmosphere and colour, and that’s the magic of radio.
PN: For anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps, what would you suggest?
JD : Community radio is brilliant. Truro Hospital Radio – now CHBN – was my stepping stone, and they’re always looking for volunteers. You’ll learn so much and get real experience behind the mic. I’d say to anyone: get involved, give it a go.
PN : Finally, life beyond the studio – tell us about your rather unusual hobby… JD : Ah yes – my slightly out-of-control passion for mechanical music! It started when I was three, going to vintage rallies with my parents and seeing fairground organs. Since then I’ve built up a collection of instruments, which I take to events across Cornwall and beyond. Rain or shine, it’s always a joy – the music, the reaction from people, the smiles it brings.
Lately, I’ve been using social media to bring a younger audience into the world of mechanical music. One TikTok video racked up over 15 million views in a week – quite surreal! And I’ve even combined my two passions by launching Mechanical Music Radio, an online station playing this music 24/7, with different programmes every hour. If you’re curious, you can tune in at www.mechanicalmusicradio.com.
Meur ras, James! It was a pleasure catching up with you.
You can hear James Dundon every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm on BBC Radio Cornwall.
I
WILDLIFE february
Emily Forster, local wildlife photographer, known as wildforsterphoto on Instagram, is back for 2026. Join her every month in exploring our local landscapes for both regular and rarer visitors...
| JONAH HOLMES
At the beginning of a new year, my attention is drawn to our coastlines. You can always be guaranteed to spot something exciting this time of year, from diving gannets, to great northern divers, to humpback whales!
The photo on the left, taken by nonProbus local Jonah Holmes, depicts a gannet demonstrating the method it uses to catch its food. You will often spot a gannet along our local coastline, scanning the sea from above. If you watch them closely, you may spot one lingering over a certain area before tucking in its
Grey Heron in Snow
wings and plummeting down into the sea at speeds of up to 70 mph.
Although a lot of us find winter to be a rather grey and dull time, our Cornish coastlines are blessed with a lot of colourful biodiversity. Snakelocks anemones are among my favourites to find in the local rockpools, as they can range from vibrant greens, through to pinks and purples. In addition to this they glow under UV light, making them an excellent find when night rockpooling.
This time of year also brings lots of stormy weather, which can bring certain rare and unusual species with it. In February 2022, I heard that there was a Cetti’s warbler at Marazion marsh and had to go check it out. I was over the moon to find it within the first 15 minutes of arriving, as it was a lifer (first time seeing the species) for me.
The Cetti’s warbler has become one of Cornwall’s quiet conservation success stories. Once a rare and elusive visitor, this small, secretive bird has steadily expanded its range in the county. More often heard than seen, Cetti’s warbler is best known for its explosive, loud
Get involved...
song, which seems far too powerful for such a compact bird. Mild winters and suitable habitat have helped support its spread, and Cornwall’s sheltered valleys and wetlands now provide ideal conditions.
Turnstones are a familiar and lively sight along Cornwall’s coastline, especially through the autumn and winter months. These small, stocky waders earn their name by flipping over stones, seaweed and shells in search of insects and crustaceans hidden beneath. Many travel thousands of miles from Arctic breeding grounds to spend the colder months in Cornwall. If you are ever down by St Ives you can often find a small group of these birds down by the harbourside. They have developed a close relationship with the locals and aren’t afraid to come and say hello.
To be in with a chance of featuring in our next issue, send in your Probus wildlife photos or artwork to: wildforsterphoto@outlook.com In the upcoming issues look out for my articles about what you can see each month and how you can photograph, document or look after them yourself.
Cetti’s
Bee-hind the scenes with PPP
By Shannon Wignall
WHENyou think of the traditional tale of Goldilocks and The Three Bears, what springs to mind? Beds and chairs? Maybe. Porridge? Definitely. A Queen Bee and her minions trying to hypnotise the bears and use them to scare away the villagers? Probably not… However, this is exactly what you will get at Probus Parish Players’ 2026 pantomime!
Putting on an annual pantomime is no mean feat, and the Probus Parish Players committee works tirelessly all year round to ensure that everything can run as smoothly as possible for the cast and crew. Rehearsals have been in full swing since our auditions in early September, and this year’s production is brimming with all the things you love about a classic pantomime fairytale.
It’s always exciting to bring a pantomime to our village that hasn’t been performed in Probus before, and that was one of the primary reasons for Director Andrew Kennedy’s choice of Goldilocks and The Three Bears. The script, written by Damian Trasler, David Lovesy and Steve Clark, brings a unique twist on a traditional story with lots of topical local references, larger-than-life characters and, of course, some classic panto-esque audience participation. As much as the script was Andrew’s choice, the whole committee couldn’t wait to get behind it and support him in bringing the story to life.
It also wouldn’t be a PPP panto without several elaborate musical numbers. Choosing songs for a production can often be one of the hardest elements, but Andrew has dug deep and selected some well-known classics to add to the narrative. However, in true Kennedy style, they may not always be the lyrics as you know them! With a chorus of over 30 superstars, our 15 main cast members are extremely well supported and the musical talents of Probus will blow the roof off Probus Village Hall. As choreographer, our recent purchase of portable mirrors has enabled me to push the chorus to new levels with the dances this year. We have been able to iron out the finer details from the very beginning, which has helped enormously in improving their confidence and skill level as we approach this year’s performances.
One of the very best parts about a pantomime is seeing the characters brought to life by our costume team. Andrew had a very clear vision of how he imagined each of the parts to look, and we are blessed to have the ongoing support of our loyal team of Costume Queens, who create true works of art for our cast to wear on stage. Without them, our performances would be a lot less colourful – and probably a lot more complicated, as the audience tried to remember who was a bear and who was a bee!
Before we get in front of an audience, we also have a full weekend of technical and dress rehearsals to make sure that the show is totally stage ready. We have been working with Matt and Katie from Dymond Audio for many years now and they bring with them a wealth of knowledge of sound and lighting and an array of lights, speakers, confetti cannons and more, which helps to do justice to the hard work put in both on stage and behind the scenes.
As you can see, the number of people involved in putting on a production each year is astounding. If you have ever thought about getting involved but don’t quite feel ready to get your sequins on, I promise we have a place for you. From sewing (or even just ironing) costumes to painting some props, helping out on stage crew, selling raffle tickets and ice creams or turning up at rehearsal to make tea, every little helps.
Goldilocks and The Three Bears is being performed at Probus Village Hall from Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026. Performances take place at 7:30 pm, with an additional performance at 2:30 pm on Saturday 21st. With a licensed bar, refreshments and even the odd piece of flashy merch available, this is sure to be a pawsome night out for the whole family.
Tickets are available now at www.
probusparishplayers.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you there to Boo, Hiss, Cheer and Boogie along to another Probus Parish Players’ pantomime! (Photos by Jon Hibberd)
Through the trees
By Tom Hickman
MYfirst attempts to draw trees were, like those of so many children, a green lollipop on a thick brown stick; however, I did recognise that there were branches and drew them sprouting from the green ball. By the age of eleven, I was fascinated by the seemingly endless complexity of the patterns they made in their progression from the trunk to twisting limbs and branches to tiny twigs.
It was my art master at Tregony School, Mr Palmer, who suggested I look again and note how the branches cross over each other, some coming towards me, others growing away. It was at that point that I really started to see the structure of trees for the first time. I had spent my
entire childhood climbing them, and while during my clambering I knew full well the trees’ dimensional form, I had not understood how to transfer that to a two-dimensional sketch. Since then I’ve sketched trees from across the world, spending hours with giant tingle, jarrah and karri trees in Western Australia, the complex tangling of virgin forests of New Zealand, twisting contortions of cork bark oaks in southern Spain, and brooding dark masses of Scots pines in western Scotland. I will never tire of the challenge, for at times it is truly a challenge as to where to start.
Once the first mark is on the page my mind clears; I relax and focus. It is a process of mark making, some might even say scribbling, and not a question of making an exact reproduction. There is always a sense of being with a particular tree or trees. I’m not exactly a tree hugger, but there have been times when I could feel them reacting to my
presence and concentration. While others might give those trees only a cursory glance, I sit and stare. Can they tell what I’m doing? I think not, but the fact that I remain with them for often hours on end means that I also am being observed.
Trees have had a strong presence in my landscape paintings, helping to frame a view, give depth and even tell the observer what lies outside the picture. Shadows of trees falling out across the grass or the walls of a house immediately indicate that there are trees behind me, not visible but there all the same.
I started my walk to Lamellyn a little too late one sunny afternoon, having spent some time sketching the old yew near the north entrance to the church. It soon clouded over as I made my way down through the village, but my attention, as always, was drawn to how the trees framed my view as I passed by Lelissick Farm. Crossing the stream I stopped to investigate the deep ditch running
down from Lamellyn, fascinated by the oaks that have grown alongside as well as fallen across it. A child’s bicycle had been added since last I passed.
The trudge up towards Lamellyn was slow, very slow, but it gave me time to stop and enjoy the view down the valley. One should always leave time to turn and observe what lies behind you. At the entrance to Lamellyn, I stopped once more to admire the view across to the church. The sun made a late appearance as I wandered home, stopping to admire the Cornish walling along the delightfully narrow winding lane.
Growing trees on the Isle of Lewis is not easy, but those that I have planted over the past twenty years are now big enough to support bird life. This spring we will be planting 1200 trees on the croft, and I enjoy the idea that in years to come this small plantation will support many more.
Restoring a 1932 Riley Monaco
INAugust, members of The Probus Club of Probus heard a fascinating illustrated account from local member Ray Schofield of a seven-year restoration project to rebuild a 1932 Riley Monaco Saloon.
Purchased in 1972 for the princely sum of £210 by Tony Pope, a retired mining engineer from Chacewater, the car was in a completely derelict state and sat in storage until 2018 when work began.
at Brooklands. Innovations included a twin-cam engine, cross-flow cylinder head and enclosed prop shaft but was still based around a traditional cart chassis and Weyman of Coventry coachbuilt timber-frame body.
Fortunately Tony is a very skilled joiner who painstakingly refashioned the body frame onto the sand-blasted metal chassis using American white ash. At the same time, the 1008cc 9hp engine was taken out and completely stripped down to individual parts. Here, Tony’s golfing partner Ray Schofield stepped in to undertake the engine rebuild. Well known in Probus as a previous owner of the Spar shop, in a former life Ray had worked in the motor trade, in the process rebuilding many engines. Ray recounted how another Cornish craftsman recast a new inlet manifold using aluminium from melted-down BMW wheels. In testament to Ray’s skills the engine, once refitted, started on the first pull and ran like a sewing machine.
As the rebuild progressed, new body panels were shaped and fitted, a complete new wiring loom was installed and every piece of chrome work was re-done. Yet another local craftsman took on the challenge of custom fitting a completely new insulated vinyl roof.
The car itself was in its time at the cutting edge of motoring development, being based on the Riley 9 which had in 1926 appeared at Shelsley Wash speed trials and later clocked 100 mph
The Riley in finished pristine condition was present in the village hall car park for Probus Club members to inspect and wonder at the skill of those involved in its revival.
Anyone fancy a pasty... or 17?
By Clare McNeilly Datson
SOME time ago, I was looking through my late mother’s stack of cookery books when I came across a copy of ‘Cornish Recipes Ancient & Modern’. This little book was first published by The Cornwall Federation of Women’s Institutes (WI) in April 1929! It is a collection of recipes garnered from WI members across the Duchy. A poem, by A.W. Jay, graces the first page.
To a Cornish Recipe Book O, Cornwall with your cliffs so grand. Your beaches rich with golden sand: Where waters blue, and clear, and deep, By granite boulders silence keep.
Oh, hills and dales, O, valleys green, Ablaze with heather, seldom seen Elsewhere than ‘midst the Cornish moors O clust’ring round her ancient tors.
Where, bordering road, and path, and lane, The golden gorse is all aflame, From early Spring to late September, As if to pray you to remember.
That heath abides ‘mong Cornish hills, Where all can find relief from ills; Where care and worries of to-day Will spread their wings and fly away.
And in these pages you will take Much comfort for your stomach’s sake; For body’s ease means rest and quiet And here you’ll find the ideal diet.
Here’s Recipes quite polyglot –Shanagrum, Likky, Eggy’ot, Star-gazey, Figgy’obben Pie And Remedies for Wart and Stye.
There’s Cornish Cream and Pasties rare, And Saffron Cake beyond compare; So read, mark, learn, digest, and then Pass on to Tre, and Pol, and Pen.
There are 17 pasty recipes in the book including apple, broccoli, date, eggy, mackerel, parsley, rabbitty, rice, sour sauce, star-gazing, and windy! It was said the Devil was too scared to cross the River Tamar, as Cornishwomen would put anything into a pasty. He wouldn’t risk such a fate!
Some of the recipes are from a time of austerity when Cornishmen were leaving to look for work abroad. Women, left at home, were resourceful – hence recipes for rook and curlew pies!
The methods are sketchy but I thought I’d share a few recipes with you. Maybe try the Cornish Punch or a Poker Beer at your next celebration – but please do be careful!
Roseland u3a
February events:
French Conversation: Monday 2nd and 16th, 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Local History: Wednesday 4th, 10:15 am–noon in Tregony Church Hall, ‘Catholics in Elizabethan Cornwall’.
Rummikub and Scrabble: Monday 9th, 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Classic Film: No film this month.
Book Club: Wednesday 18th, 2–4 pm at Roseland Parc Library, A Man Called Ove by Fedrik Backman
Strum for Fun: Monday 23rd, 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Lunch Club: Thursday 26th, details to be announced.
Patchwork and Craft Group: Friday 27th, 9:30 am–noon, Probus Village Hall. u3aroselandanddistrict.weebly.com
Cornish Masquerade Ball
THEcountdown is officially on! Probus Fun Week returns from 8th to 15th August 2026, and we can confidently say this will be the biggest and most exciting one ever. Over the past few months, the committee has been busy meeting, planning and locking in dates and events. We’ll be sharing details with you over the coming months, but there is one announcement we simply couldn’t wait to make: for the very first time in the history of Fun Week – and, indeed, Probus itself – we will be hosting a Cornish Masquerade Ball.
On 7th March, Probus Village Hall will be transformed into a spectacular setting. Think elegance, atmosphere and a real touch of magic. The night will include a welcome drinks reception, a stunning three-course meal with wine, great music to dance the night away, an epic charity auction with incredible prizes to help raise money for a special cause, plus a few surprises that we’re keeping under wraps. This is your chance to truly dress to impress, don your finest mask and enjoy a glamorous evening like no other.
Tickets are on sale now at £60 per person (or pre-purchase a table of 10 for £500). Head over to our Facebook page for full details and to grab your ticket.
Steve Dalton
ITwas with great sadness that we lost Steve Dalton on 1st December 2025, a man who did a tremendous amount for the village since moving here with his wife, Colleen, in 2013.
As you go through life you meet all kinds of people. Good people; people who are trustworthy, who have humility and humour; people who are kind and honest and principled. Occasionally you meet someone with all of these qualities, and a little extra something indefinable that makes them special. Steve was one of those people.
Steve could motivate and inspire. He had an infectious enthusiasm and conviction that anything was possible. Steve always had a plan; he got things done. Steve had many roles in the village. He was a parish councillor, an allotment committee member, he was our Church Warden, and he was involved in the creation care within the church. He was instrumental in achieving our Eco-Church Bronze award and renewing our commitment to Fair Trade. His organisation, Probus Environmental Action Team (PEAT), tended to the churchyard, organised litter-picking events and enhanced the green spaces within the village.
Steve worked with us in the churchyard restoring and reclaiming lost areas so that families within the village can access their relatives’ graves. We also worked together on raising the substantial amount of money needed to restore the Sexton’s Hut in the churchyard. Without Steve’s hard work, this would never have come to fruition.
Steve was proud that we could give opportunity to young people on the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. We would look forward to our Saturday mornings engaging in banter with the youngsters about the trials of life and where their futures might lie. It was good to know that our sessions made the youngsters think - they would come back and ask other questions. Steve thoroughly enjoyed this.
Steve was instrumental in organising a monthly litter pick, which was well attended by villagers of all ages. We collected and recycled several tons of litter waste.
Steve loved wildlife and came up with schemes to enhance and help our struggling environment. We are excited to have hedgehogs in the churchyard, and numerous new birds’ nests. Steve worked on finding new ways to encourage more swifts to the churchyard, putting up nesting boxes and even wiring up songbird sounds.
In lighter moments, we heard that Colleen had joined the Probus ‘Knit and Natter’ group, where everybody took turns to bake a cake to share. Colleen’s Victoria sponge was much appreciated… although, eventually, she confessed that Steve had baked it!
What we can say is that Steve has left us practical achievements, and many lasting memories. He was just such a great guy and will be sadly missed by us all.
Words of tribute by: Nick Lauder, Laura Van Kempen-Wilson and Anne Pattison
The Truro School Aeroplane ‘Spirit of Truro’
By Dennis Keam
Additional rooms for art, ceramics, and engineering drawing were also included.
Upon completion in 1977, the project became the largest self-built facility in the UK at the time. Shortly after, a student suggested that the school should build an aeroplane. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and an Evans VP2
IN 1975, Truro School faced a lack of essential facilities like a sports hall and technology workshops. A group of dedicated teachers decided to take matters into their own hands and build the complex themselves. The Headmaster, Derek Burrell, enlisted the help of Dennis Keam, the Design and Technology Master, to plan the layout for the new building. The design featured a standard-sized sports hall, along with two squash courts, spacious metalwork and woodwork rooms, and a large projects room.
was chosen for the project. This wooden aircraft was powered by a converted VW 1834cc Caravanette engine. Truro School registered with the Popular Flying Association, and Rod Bellamy, who was building replica aircraft at Lands End and later at Bodmin Airfield, became the project’s inspector. He was impressed by the high standard of work.
With an enthusiastic team of students and staff, the VP2 became the first of its kind to be built in the UK. One of the most enjoyable aspects of the project was the doping and warming of the wings’ fabric
to make it taut. The engine conversion, however, faced an unusual setback when a 250cc motorcycle carburettor was mistakenly fitted to the 1834cc engine by a specialist near Cambridge.
Phil Irish, owner of the landing strip near Threemilestone, volunteered to oversee the first flight and insisted that it be launched from his airfield. However, unaware of the aircraft’s underpowered engine, the plane just managed to clear the hedge on its first attempt, landing safely but with the pilot a little shaken. After consultation with Weber, the carburettor manufacturers, it was decided to switch to a twin-choke DCO36 E carburettor and fit a new propeller. The aircraft, now named the ‘Spirit of Truro’, was then flown to Lands End for fine-tuning by Viv Bellamy, a former WWII Spitfire pilot.
In a nod to the school’s centenary celebrations, the plane was named by King Charles, who was then Duke of Cornwall, and its official maiden flight attracted worldwide attention. In 1980, Truro School was invited to showcase the ‘Spirit of Truro’ at the Farnborough Airshow. The plane also made appearances at local airshows in Brittany. The entire project received generous support from BP, and for many students, the plane became a key topic during university interviews, often overshadowing other accomplishments.
Storm Goretti
BY the time you read this, it will have been more than three weeks since Storm Goretti lashed our shores, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Due to Probus News’ tight production and print deadlines, however, we have not been able to cover it in this edition – so, although it might seem like ‘old’ news, we’re planning to devote some space to the impact of the storm next month.
We’d like to hear from you about your experiences. Did it cause any structural damage to your property? Were you left without power, water or a phone connection? What about transport – did you face a long detour in order to get to and from work or school? Has a favourite view or walk of yours been decimated by the destruction of centuries-old trees?
Share the good news stories, too. One heart-warming thing that came out of the storm was the way in which communities all over Cornwall came together to help those who were worst affected. Are there people in our community who you feel went above and beyond in helping with the clear-up effort or providing assistance to vulnerable neighbours? How are people setting about the mammoth task of restoring gardens, woods and parklands to their former glory?
To allow us to recount as many different experiences as possible, please limit your text to one paragraph only – a maximum of 100 words. If you’d like to send a photo too, please do so – our contact details are on page 3 and we’ll need your submissions by 10th February. We’ll publish as many as we can so that our archives hold a record of the worst storm to hit our area in more than 35 years.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
RUGBY SIX NATIONS – LIVE AT THE CLUB
Join us at the club to watch all the Rugby Six Nations action live in a great atmosphere
FOOD FOR ENGLAND GAMES
Food will be available during England games, prepared by chef Ondine
LIVE MUSIC NIGHT
Supported by Talen Jacks
Saturday 2nd May
At the Club from 6pm
Tickets available at the club from Saturday 7th February 12 noon
Be quick tickets will sell fast
Secretaries: To publicise your meetings or events, let us know well in advance and we will include details here. The contact details for all groups/clubs/societies can be found on page 8.
Key: PVH = Probus Village Hall. PCC = Probus Comrades Club.
Acoustic Night Upstairs Last Monday of the month at PCC, starting at 7:30 pm.
Badminton Club: 8 pm every Monday at PVH.
Bookworms Book Club: 7 pm on the third Tuesday of every month. Get in touch for details of venue and book to be discussed.
Breakfast Club: Monday 9th February, 9 am at Grigg’s Restaurant, Sticker. Everyone welcome; book your place via Roger Fortescue.
Coffee ‘n’ Chat: Every Tuesday morning from 10 am to noon at Probus Church. Open to everyone, young and old, church-goer or not.
Friendship Group: MHA Communities Cornwall is open to folk 55+ on the 1st Thursday monthly, 10 am–noon at PVH.
Luncheon Club: MHA Communities Cornwall is open to folk 55+ on alternate Wednesdays from noon to 2 pm at PVH. The next lunches will be held on Wednesday 4th February (there is no second date in February due to the village pantomime), 4th and 18th March, 1st, 15th and 29th April.
Mid Cornwall Wood Turners Club: Meet the first Tuesday of every month 7–9:30 pm with demonstrations and competitions. Training nights on the third Tuesday of the month at PVH.
Mobile library: The mobile library will be in PVH car park on 20th February, between 11:30 am and 12:15 pm.
Pickleball Club: Fridays 7:30–10:30 pm, Sundays 6:30–9:30 pm, PVH. New members welcome.
Probus Club of Probus: Thursday 19th February, 12:00 for 12:30 lunch at the Cornwall Hotel and Spa. The guest speaker is Martin Bidmead, excoastguard and St Mawes Harbourmaster.
Probus Historic Cornwall Society: 7:15 for 7:30 pm start in PVH. Visitors £3.50.
Monday 9th February: Speaker Guy English on ‘Holy Wells’. Guy’s chance encounter with a holy well turned into an obsession that led him to discover more than 20 not previously recorded!
Monday 9th March: Speaker Samantha Banes from Historic England on ‘Listing Historic Buildings’.
Probus Knit and Natter Group: Every Wednesday 10 am at PCC.
Probus Litter Pickers: First Saturday of each month at 10 am. Meet at PVH.
Probus Parish Council: Next meeting is on 25th February at 7 pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend and are given 15 minutes public participation. www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk.
Probus Pedallers: Leave from the surgery every Sunday at 9 am. The more leisurely group leaves at 10 am.
Probus Walking Group: Every Wednesday 9 am or 9:30 am start. Every Friday for shorter walks 10 am. New members always welcome.
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE HAWKINS? WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE HAWKINS?
G r e e k N i g h t i s b a c k a n d i t ’ s l a n d i n g o n S a t u r d a y t h e 1 4 o f
F e b r u a r y f r o m 7 p m , b r i n g i n g a l l t h e l o v e , f l a v o u r a n d f u n f o r
£ 3 5 p e r p e r s o n . E n j o y a h u g e s e l e c t i o n o f h a n d m a d e G r e e k
f o o d , v i b r a n t G r e e k m u s i c a n d t r a d i t i o n a l d a n c i n g f o r a n i g h t
t h a t ’ s p e r f e c t f o r c o u p l e s , f r i e n d s o r a n y o n e w h o f a n c i e s
s o m e t h i n g d i f f e r e n t t h i s V a l e n t i n e ’ s . E x p e c t b i g f l a v o u r s , g r e a t
v i b e s a n d p l e n t y o f M e d i t e r r a n e a n m a g i c T h i s o n e w i l l s e l l o u t
a s t , s o t o b o o k p l e a s e c a l l
Local sport
Probus FC
PROBUS
FC First team currently sit 13th in the Kernow Stone St Piran League – Division 1 West, with 13 points. Played 11, won 4, drawn 1, lost 6.
Two divisions below, in Division 3 West, Probus Reserves also sit 13th in their division, with 10 points. Played 12, won 3, drawn 1, lost 8. (Results correct as of 17th January.)
Both home and away fixtures for February are listed at the bottom of the page. Come along and give the lads your support!
February Fixtures – Probus FC
Probus youth teams
THEU16s (pictured below) had an awesome first match back, playing Wendron and winning 4-0. Jowan scored the first goal, and this was followed by a hat trick for Jake.
The following week they played Leedstown, who are top of the table. Probus lost 3-0, but the boys did really well as some teams had been beaten by double figures so we were all really proud of them. They battled till the end! They are currently mid-table, with Troon above them in third place.
Saturday 7th First team RNAS Culdrose 1st 2:30 pm Away
Saturday 7th Reserves Perranporth 2nd 2:30 pm Home
Saturday 14th Reserves Penryn Athletic 2nd 2:30 pm Home
Saturday 21st First team Wendron United 3rd 2:30 pm Away
Saturday 21st Reserves Mullion 2nd 2:30 pm Home
Saturday 28th First team Dropship FC 1st 2:30 pm Away
Saturday 28th Reserves Mawgan 1st 2:30 pm Away
For up-to-date information about where Probus FC teams stand in their respective divisions, go to full-time.thefa.com/fixtures.html? – then search for Kernow Stone St Piran League.
